Pennsylvania Middle School Principal Bans Uggs-Like Boots From Class

A Pennsylvania middle school principal has banned the wearing of Uggs-like boots in school.

Not because they’re ugly, the Pottstown Mercury reports, but because they may be used to smuggle cellphones and other prohibited items into school.

The ban took effect last Monday at the Pottstown Middle School outside Philadelphia, according to a letter sent to parents by school principal Gail M. Cooper. By last Wednesday, at least nine violations had occurred, the Pottstown Mercury reported in a later story. It applies to any boots that do not fit tightly around the calf or ankle, such as Uggs. Boots with zippers or laces may still be worn, as long as they remain zipped or laced.

Under school policy, students who bring cellphones to school must leave them in their lockers or keep them turned off until the school day ends. Cooper said students may still wear their Uggs-style boots on school grounds but must change their shoes before entering class.

The Mercury says reaction to the ban has been overwhelmingly negative.

But school officials say they have no intention of reversing themselves, citing the support they’ve received for the ban from several parents.